A gorgeous view, over 10,000 square feet of event space, 15ft ceilings, and a huge outdoor terrace, the brand-spanking new Globe and Mail Centre certainly has the local special event scene abuzz! With an overall capacity of 400, this flexible and versatile space offers floor to ceiling windows with marvelous, panoramic views of the city.

Partnering with a hand-selected array of high caliber preferred vendors, the venue hosted its first-ever Industry Night this past week. With thanks to the talented and gracious Vanessa of Garrison McArthur Photograhy, I’m so pleased to share this spectacular evening with you!

The VIP experience begins even before entering the space with thanks to the fine folks at Northern Valet. Upon entry, my eyes were immediately drawn to the elegant and sleek furniture rentals by Luxe Rentals, as well as the stunning lights, projections, sounds and colours, conceptualized by the talented team at Artam Design Inc. Continuing into the main hall, luxurious black and gold seating areas provided by Divine Furniture Rentals allowed guests to mix and mingle in comfort all while enjoying the delicious food provided by some of the city’s top caterers. Floor to ceiling vinyl, neon graphics by our friends at Dance Floor Decor brought the all interiors to life.

My first stop for food for the evening was with Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events, who served up Tossed Chicken Wings in three different and unique flavours. My personal favourite was the Togarashi with Roasted Nori Powder – one bite and I was hooked! Although I could have definitely stuck around for more of this spicy dish, the night was young and I thankfully decided to pace myself circling back again later for an oh-so-sophisticated D&D version of milk and cookies, consisting of Froot Loop Macarons served with Almond Milk – yummy!

Executive Chef Karen O’Connor serving up the smiles

As always, the Food Dudes outdid themselves with two very popular dishes for guests to enjoy: Lobster Queso and Wagyu Beef Big Mac Slider. The Lobster Queso was enveloped with cheesy goodness, with a little kick of spice toward. The Big Mac Slider was so tender and juicy, no one could stop at just one!

Our food-topia journey didn’t stop there as Presidential Gourmet served up both sweet and savoury gluten-free options. The Ethiopian Kifto Steak Tartar was uniquely placed on a Cassava Chip giving this dish a wonderful crunch. The White Peach Gateau served up a refreshing explosion of flavours – what more could a girl ask for?

Drake Catering‘s Ancho Braised Leg of Lamb was perfectly cooked: tender, succulent, and featured a wonderful array of herbs, perfectly complimenting the incredibly tasty dish. For good measure, a veggie version was offered as well – definitely a creative and most scrumptious option!

Perhaps my Italian roots got the best of me, but McEwan Catering‘s Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi checked all the boxes for exactly how gnocchi should be – light, yet full of flavour in a rich, creamy sauce. Accompanied with a large generous chunk of fresh Parmesan Cheese, this hearty and flavourful selection was a delight among guests. I’d also be remiss not to mention the beautiful floral arrangements by McEwan Floral that dotted the entire space, adding bright pops of colour and beauty throughout.

With plenty of eye candy to go ’round, the event also featured a 7-tier, all white cake by Fine Cakes By Zehra. This sky-high cake featured a constantly evolving, projected art display. Definitely an interesting display.

Every good party features fabulous music and this evening was no exception! The Idea Hunter assembled a team of talented artists to keep the audience enthralled throughout the majority of the evening. Phenomenal performances by their electric violinist and flute/harpist had guests fully entranced. I overheard guests whisper “I want them at my next event” on at least a few occasions throughout the evening.

A fun and innovative photo booth by RavenSocial Photobooths was certainly a crowd-pleaser throughout the evening. A new take on the traditional photo booth strips, selfies are immediately displayed on the big screen in the form of a boomerang loop. As a wedding planner, I’m always on the lookout for new and fresh ideas and I loved how fun and interactive this photo booth was.

There was certainly no shortage of drinks throughout the evening as many providers were on site for guests to try a wide variety of beverages.

I ended the evening feeling inspired by my surroundings and I left thinking about all the possibilities that could take place at this brand new event space – a big congrats and a huge thank you to the team at the Globe and Mail Event Centre for including us in such a fantastic evening!

A gentle cruise through the winding hills just north of Toronto, we arrive at the oh-so picturesque Cambium Farms. Nestled within 50 acres of beautiful, lush greenery, this early 1800’s fully restored, family-owned farm and carriage house is absolutely overflowing with all the rustic charm you’d expect – making it a go-to favourite among couples and planners alike.

Teaming up with a host of incredibly talented preferred vendors, the venue opened up its doors, providing both Clients and industry professionals the opportunity to view the authentic and inspiring century-old barn in all its glory. A huge thanks to Jessica Hill of A Brit & A Blonde for capturing all the stunning details of the evening. Her knowledge and familiarity of the space ensured that the photos you’re about to see came out perfect – it’s no wonder shes one of the venue’s preferred wedding photographers!

Against the musical backdrop of 3-piece jazz band Triplicity, we thought we’d start off our tour by visiting the lovely outdoor ceremony space. These charming wood benches with bright and vivid flowers by Cedar & Stone Floral Studio lined the aisle, leading toward a lush floral backdrop amidst a pocket of evergreens – such a beautifully unique setting for two love birds to tie the knot.

Entering the historic barn, you can’t help but feel that immediate impact – a perfect culmination of decorative touches! The string lights that contrasted against the barn’s wood beams carries your eyes to a sparkling chandelier right over the dance floor. Rows of rectangular harvest tables and chairs from Marvelle Events and table top decor from Chair-man Mills compliment the space perfectly. The breathtaking decor and flowers throughout were put together seamlessly by Bellwood Blooms, Utility House Design, and Vintage Rentals & Events. I loved the alternating garland floral runners and small flower arrangements with statement florals. Colourful vases, turquoise napkins with hints of pink and purple were the perfect summer palette to liven up the room.

Cabral Catering kept hungry guests happy, serving up both delicious hors d’oeuvres and warm, hearty mains such as tender Chicken Piccata with Wild Rice and White Wine Steamed Mussels. Hearty but not too heavy, the dishes felt perfect for a brisk summer’s eve.

Daniel et Daniel Catering & Events satiated the sweet tooth with scrumptious Macarons topped with Raspberries and Blueberries; Madeleines dipped in dark chocolate, various Tarts, Mini Cakes, and even more were all devoured by the guests. My personal favourite was the Deconstructed Peach Pie Verrine – it tasted exactly how grandma would make it and I may have had more than one =)

Did I mention I love dessert? Speaking of, Emily of Crumb & Berry showcased a perfect three-tiered Buttercream Cake along side Chocolate Chip Cookies, Cupcakes of all flavours and Donuts. Espresso Bella’s coffee station was the perfect accompaniment to these delicious sweets. The sweet table was gone within a blink of an eye and it was safe to say that all the guests enjoyed the treats!

Snaptique was such a hit with guests. This aluminum RV was converted into the chicest photo booth I have yet to see! The interior with all its vintage charm was full of fun and exciting props – the perfect touch for guests looking to step outside for some fresh(er) air.

Adagio Valet‘s chivalrous valet drivers made arrival and departure a dream for guests. As the late summer sun began to set and the evening began to wind down, there was a palpable sense of excitement among guests. We can’t wait to see what this venue has in store for us next year!